Shades of C2C

Shades of C2C Blanket by Janene Grace

What is Being Made

The Shades of C2C is a corner to corner crochet blanket designed by Janene Grace that creates a beautiful color gradient effect. This blanket features a pixelated fade from dark to light using four coordinating shades of the same color family, producing a visual effect similar to a pixelated image enlarged to maximum zoom. The finished size is perfectly suited for use as either a lap blanket or baby blanket, making it a versatile project for various recipients and purposes.

Corner to Corner Crochet Technique

This blanket utilizes the Corner to Corner (C2C) crochet technique, a straightforward method that builds the fabric diagonally from one corner to the opposite corner. C2C crochet is known for its simplicity and visual appeal, creating geometric patterns through strategic color placement. The technique allows crafters to work with a limited stitch repertoire while achieving sophisticated results. By selecting four distinct shades of yarn and placing them strategically throughout the pattern, the crafter can control the gradient effect and create the signature fade from dark to light that defines this design.

Stitches Used

The Shades of C2C blanket employs only three fundamental crochet stitches, making it accessible despite its intermediate difficulty rating. The stitches used are:

• Chain stitch – used to create the foundation and structure of the corner to corner pattern
• Double crochet stitch – the primary stitch that builds the fabric and creates the visible texture
• Slip stitch – used to join rounds and transition between sections

All instructions are provided in US crochet terminology. The intermediate difficulty level reflects the need to manage color changes and understand the corner to corner construction method, rather than the complexity of the stitches themselves.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

This project calls for worsted weight yarn in four coordinating shades of the same color family. The pattern recommends using washable yarn for easy care. The yarn quantities required are:

• Shade A (dark): 600-700 yards (550-640 meters)
• Shade B (medium dark): 600-700 yards (550-640 meters)
• Shade C (medium light): 600-700 yards (550-640 meters)
• Shade D (light): 600-700 yards (550-640 meters)

The sample blanket was created using Herrschners Worsted 8 Yarn, requiring slightly more than one skein in each of the four selected shades. Crafters have the flexibility to choose their own yarn brands and specific colors within their preferred color family, allowing for complete customization of the finished blanket's appearance while maintaining the gradient effect.